Creating custom candle labels is all about balancing brand identity, durability, and aesthetic appeal. For candle brands, the label is often the first thing a customer notices, making it an essential part of the product experience.
The best candle labels custom options should be visually striking, made of materials that withstand heat, and informative, with necessary details like candle label requirements for packaging and labeling compliance.
Whether you’re a seasoned candle maker or just starting out, here’s everything you need to know to design beautiful, functional labels that stand out on shelves and online.
What Materials Are Good for Custom Candle Labels?
For printed candle labels, durability and heat resistance are crucial. Here are a few material options commonly used for custom candle labels:
- White BOPP (biaxially oriented polypropylene): This material is water-resistant, durable, and ideal for candles that might be exposed to moisture, like those in bathrooms or kitchens. It also provides a clean, modern look, which works well for minimalist designs.
- Clear BOPP: Clear BOPP labels offer a "no-label" look, perfect for showcasing the candle wax color. This is a good choice if you want the candle itself to take center stage while still providing key information.
- Textured Paper: Textured paper labels create a rustic, artisanal feel, ideal for brands that want a handcrafted look. Pair these labels with matte finishes to complete the aesthetic, as seen in the “Pumpkin & Candied Pecan” candle example.
Each material offers unique advantages, so consider your brand style and the environment your candles scented will be used in when choosing the right label.
What Packaging is Used for Candles?
Packaging and labeling play a huge role in the overall appeal of candles. Here’s an overview of popular packaging choices:
- Glass Jars: Glass jars are popular for candles because they’re safe and visually appealing. When labeling glass jars, make sure the label material can withstand heat and is durable enough to stay put through handling. The “Hot Cocoa Bomb” candle example below shows how a simple, bold label can stand out on glass.
- Metal Tins: Metal tins, like those shown in this “Big Dill” candle image, offer a modern, industrial look. These containers are durable and portable, and they’re perfect for small or travel-sized candles. When labeling metal tins, roll labels are effective for a seamless, professional finish.
- Ceramic and Stoneware Containers: These containers provide an upscale feel, often used for luxury candle brands. However, they can be challenging to label due to uneven surfaces. Consider custom-sized labels or tags that can be affixed with ribbon for a classy touch.
- Repurposed Containers: Many brands and DIY candle makers use repurposed items like jam jars or food tins to create unique, sustainable packaging. Can you use glass jam jars to make homemade candles? Yes! Just ensure they’re heat-safe and thick enough to withstand the candle’s heat.
Label Design Tips for Custom Candle Labels
Designing a candle label isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s also about functionality. Here are some key design considerations:
1. Include Essential Information
Your candle labels custom need to be visually appealing, but they also have to meet candle label requirements. Include the following:
- Fragrance: Clearly state the scent, as it’s often the biggest draw for candle shoppers.
- Weight and Burn Time: Let customers know how long they can expect the candle to last.
- Fire Safety Warning: This is crucial for compliance and consumer safety. Common wording includes, “Burn within sight” and “Keep away from flammable objects.”
- Brand Information: Include your logo, company name, and website to boost brand recognition.
2. Embrace Seasonal Themes
Candles are popular for seasonal themes. Play with seasonal scents and matching label designs to appeal to customers all year round.
For instance, the “Apple Harvest” label is ideal for autumn and appeals to customers looking for cozy fall scents. Meanwhile, the “Fireside Slumber” label works well for winter, using a cool color palette to evoke a seasonal feel.
3. Get Creative with Colors and Fonts
The colors and fonts you choose can help tell your brand’s story. For a clean, modern look, neutral tones and sans-serif fonts work well. For an artisanal feel, opt for earthy tones, classic serif fonts, or handwritten styles.
Look at the “You Are Loved” candle label example—it uses a playful font and bright colors, which align with a fun, lighthearted brand vibe.
How to Print Custom Candle Labels
To print custom labels for your candles, start by choosing a label manufacturer that offers a range of materials, finishes, and printing techniques to match your design vision. Here’s a basic printing process:
- Choose Your Label Size and Shape: Pick a custom size that fits your candle container perfectly. Round labels work well for jars and tins, while rectangular labels are good for larger, flat surfaces. For more information, check out our blog, How to Choose the Best Label Sizes and Shapes for Your Products.
- Select Materials and Finishes: From water-resistant BOPP to textured paper, select a material that aligns with your brand and protects your label. Consider matte or glossy finishes based on your desired look.
- Prepare Your Design File: Work with a designer or use design software to create your label file. Be sure to follow your label printer’s specifications.
- Submit Your Design for Printing: Many printers offer roll labels, which are easy to apply and ideal for bulk orders.
- Review and Test: Order a sample to check the label quality. Place it on the container to test its durability and look.